Meet Our Players: Karlos Batista Rodriges from Russia

Posted by Bradley, September 29, 2014

Karlos Batista Rodriges from Russia, who plays under the nickname “fihalhohi”, represented Titan Poker at the Italian Poker Open 2013, which took place at the Municipale Casino in Campione, Italy, from April 23rd – 30th. A total of €1,000,000 in prizes was guaranteed at the prestigious tournament. Karlos won his seat at one of Titan Poker’s weekly Super Satellites.

“It wasn’t easy; it wasn’t hard,” Karlos said of the Super Satellite tournament he played, after receiving the €900 winner’s prize package. “There were moments of luck, times when opponents just gave me their chips.”

Karlos spoke with us after the tournament as he prepared for his journey to Italy to participate in the Italian Poker Open 2013.

“There was one hand in heads-up poker where we both had deep stacks,” Karlos said, recalling the moment of victory. “My opponent raised, then re-raised pre-flop and finally pushed all-in with A7 against my AK.”

Q: Have you played live tournaments in the past?

A: Yes, I have played in live tournaments in the past. I have played in many different tournaments, but the main ones to mention would be the WSOP Europe and the EPT. Last February I was in Vienna and participated in a 770 EUR buy-in event and walked away with 1,600 EUR!!!”

Q: Have you ever been to Italy before?

A: Yes, I have been to Italy before but not for poker, just to travel. It is a beautiful country.

Q: Do you prefer cash games or tournaments?

A: I prefer tournaments to cash games. The psychology is very different and it’s easier to keep your head above water when you’re on a bad streak.

Q: How long have you been playing online poker? How did you learn to play?

A: I have been playing for 5 years. I learned to play mostly through books and videos. I used Harrington’s Trilogy to work on my tournament game, and Stokes Poker videos helped me a lot with my cash limit hold'em action.

Q: What are you doing to improve your poker skills?

A: I continue to read books on poker and analyze my opponents’ games, as well as my own.

Q: What are your future poker goals?

A: I hope to win a big tournament such as the Rio or Fort Knox Jackpot Sit ‘N Go.

Q: Do you have any advice for new players?

A: Even at the darkest moments, when it seems that poker’s fortune has turned away from you forever, never stop believing in yourself. Keep on playing poker and working on your skills and success will come from that.